The first channel was shallow and no problem, but as we approached the middle of the main channel it became clear we had underestimated the crossing. The water was waist deep and while not raging, the current was strong enough to make Apoc take a seat.

I crawled into the Cajon Pass McDonald’s to see something I’ll never forget. 50+ stinky, dirty hikers had taken over the McDonald’s. With packs and trekking poles strewn across the lobby, phones charging in every outlet, and non-hikers entering with pinched noses there was barely room to walk let alone sit.